7:10am Tuesday 16th March 2010
By Jeremy Grimaldi
A YORKSHIRE terrier has died of injuries inflicted during a horrific bull terrier attack.
The case of Harry, who had to have his hind leg amputated following the unprovoked attack at the bottom of Inglesham Road, Penhill, was first highlighted by the Adver on Friday.
At the time, vets expected Harry to survive the operation.
However his owners eventually decided to put him to sleep after they decided it was the only humane option.
Last night police said they were seeking either a destruction order for the attacker dog, or a control order to prohibit the dog from going outside without a lead and a muzzle. Such orders are made by a court.
The force has also reported the dog’s owner for failing to keep proper control of a canine in a public place.
Shane Jones, the stepson of Harry’s owners, said the whole family were heartbroken by the dog’s death.
He said: “Harry had to be put to sleep on Saturday as complications had set in, and it was the only humane thing to do.
“We could no longer stand his great pain.
“Infection and complications occurred and his temperature was very high.
“He had been moved into quarantine and we couldn't even stroke him without wearing gloves. It was very tough because it was such a sudden downturn. We all thought he was going to pull through.
“It’s been difficult to come to terms with but we like to think he is in a better place now.
“We are heartbroken.”
He added the family hoped the attacking dog would not be destroyed.
Victoria Jones, Shane’s daughter, posted a comment on the Adver website, saying: “We are missing him very much.
“Harry was the kindest, most friendly and lively dog. We have a hole in our family and a hole in our hearts.
“Rest in peace, puppy.”
Swindon Police West sector sergeant David Flynn said the force would take the file to the Crown Prosecution Service in the next few days.
He said the dog which was thought to be involved would remain with the owner until the case was brought forward.
Sgt Flynn added: “We are looking into the possibility of having the dog destroyed.
“We have taken this case seriously and conducted a full investigation including finding the woman and reporting her for the offences.
“Although I intend to take the owner’s comments about the dog’s fate on board, we will have to leave the final decision up to the magistrates.”
Harry’s death came almost a week after the Government announced plans to extend the Dangerous Dogs Act to force owners to purchase third party insurance and microchip all dogs. The Jones family back all the measures in the hope that they might mean fewer attacks.
© Copyright 2001-2012 Newsquest Media Group
http://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/trade_directory/